RIA Compliance 
Services
Our Common Sense
Approach to RIA Compliance
If managing your RIA firm’s compliance responsibilities is taking up too much time or causing confusion, our common sense approach to compliance can help.
Since 2006, our firm has worked with small to mid-size RIA firms to help them comply with today’s ever-changing federal and state regulatory landscape.
While taking the time to understand their compliance challenges, our team has designed a straightforward service strategy that focuses on helping advisors stay compliant without boxing them into long term contracts.
Whether you need help with a specific task like updating your Form ADV annually, or preparing for a regulatory examination, our compliance team can provide the support you need.
“Our approach to helping you maintain your ongoing compliance requirements focuses on providing you with support you need, when you need it, at a fee that makes sense.”
Ongoing Compliance Support for
Small to Mid-Sized RIA Firms
If you’re tired of paying too much for compliance bells and whistles you don’t need, we encourage you to learn more about our straightforward approach to compliance.
Option 1.
Hourly Support As Needed
Ideal for small to mid-sized RIA firms with straightforward compliance programs that need support with specific tasks from time to time.
Task Examples:
Advertising reviews
Additional state registrations/notice filings
Form U4/U5 filings
Amendments to Form ADV
State to SEC transition (or vice versa)
Drafting new client advisory agreements
Modification of compliance program/policies
Assistance with regulatory examinations
Liaise directly with state/federal regulators
Compliance training seminars
Annual compliance meetings
Due diligence reviews
Overview of RIA operations, management, and accounting best practices or requirements
Option 2.
Annual Renewal and Update of Form ADV
Ideal for RIA firms of any size that need help managing the required annual registration renewal and Form ADV amendment process.
What’s Included:
Assistance with review and confirmation of firm and Investment Advisor Representative (IAR) state registration/notice filing renewal fee statements issued by FINRA
Assistance with renewal fee processing in E-Bill
Project manage Form ADV annual updating amendment, due within 90 days of fiscal year end
Assistance with SEC registration renewal fee (SEC firms only)
Form U4 updates (as needed)
Compliance program revision based on changes in regulations (as needed)
Amend investment advisory agreements based on changes to RIA services and fees (as needed)
Option 3.
Annual Retainer Compliance Program
Ideal for RIA Firms with complex business models that require sophisticated compliance and regulatory disclosure requirements.
What’s Included:
All services provided in Option 2, plus…
Compliance calendar adjusted annually based on regulatory and best practice modifications
Quarterly newsletter and risk matrix (when compiled in the aggregate, the four risk matrices support the annual compliance review)
Quarterly compliance training webinars
Discounted hourly fee rate for out-of-scope items
Featured Compliance Services
With over two decades of experience supporting RIAs, we offer practical, personalized compliance solutions built around the real needs of advisory firms. Whether you’re launching a new firm, maintaining an existing program, or preparing for a regulatory exam, our services are designed to meet you where you are—and help you stay ahead.
Advertising Review
Under the primary advertising rule, Rule 206(4)-1 of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, all advisors must follow vague and complex guidelines when advertising and promoting their RIA firm.
At Advisor Guidance, our compliance team is well-versed with these rules and can provide your firm with comprehensive, ongoing advertising review services that help you grow and protect your RIA.
In addition to our advertising review services, we offer marketing services, including graphic design, website development, and social media support, that help you promote your RIA safely.
Advertising review examples include:
- Direct mail marketing
- Newsletters
- Presentations
- Social Media posts
- Webinars
- Websites
Annual Registration Renewal & Form ADV Update
All Registered Investment Advisor (“RIA”) firms are required to renew their registrations on an annual basis. Based on a calendar year, the renewal process typically begins in mid-November and all state registration and notice filing renewal fees are paid via the IARD system. Failure to renew the the RIA properly, and in accordance with necessary state and federal requirements, could result in a registration being revoked.
The compliance team at Advisor Guidance has the experience to ensure the RIA renewal process goes smoothly so that you and your colleagues can focus on what you do best: supporting the needs of your clients.
As part of our Annual Renewal and Update services, we will:
- Work proactively with your firm through the renewal process for re-registration of the firm and your Investment Advisor Representatives for the upcoming year
- Update the ADV 1, ADV 2, ADV 3 (if applicable), and all registration documents
- Manage the filing of appropriate documents with the correct regulators
- Assist with any additional requirements and updates
SEC & State Mock Examinations
Our mock examinations serve as an early warning system, identifying potential compliance issues before they become problems during actual examinations. By participating in our carefully designed mock SEC and state examinations, you’ll build both preparedness and confidence. Think of it as a dress rehearsal that ensures you’re ready for the real performance.
Don’t wait for an unexpected examination to test your readiness. Contact us today to learn how our mock examination program can help safeguard your firm’s future.
Frequently Asked Questions
About RIA Compliance
Are there any required documents that I need to keep for my firm?
Yes. Investment Advisors are subject to the books and records requirements of either the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 for SEC-registered advisors; or, the state requirements of their home state where their firm is currently registered.
Are there any annual filing requirements?
Annually, you are required to submit an updating amendment to Form ADV on the IARD system.
How do I schedule an exam for an individual in my firm?
You can open a window to schedule an exam for an individual by checking the appropriate exam on the Form U4 for the individual and paying the exam fee to your firm’s daily account. The Form U4 will need to be submitted on the CRD system.
Alternatively, individuals may sign up on the FINRA website (FINRA.org). Search for Test Enrollment Services System (“TESS”).
Do I have to review my compliance policies and procedures?
Yes. Investment Advisors are required to test and review their policies and procedures on an annual basis in an effort to confirm that they are adequately designed and effectively implemented for the size and scope of the firm. Need help with your ongoing compliance? Schedule a free consultation.
Do I have to file anything if my firm hires an individual to provide investment advice to clients?
All states require firms to file the Form U4 for your Investment Advisor Representatives (“IAR”) who will be providing investment advice to your clients. This is true for both state and SEC registered investment advisor firms. Brochure Supplements (part of your Form ADV Part 2) need to be prepared for each IAR and delivered to the clients they provide advice to and meet with.
Do I have to amend my Form ADV Part 2 Brochure and Brochure Supplement?
You are required to update your Form ADV Part 2 annually to make sure the information is still current, and deliver the updated Part 2 to your clients within 120 days of your year-end. You are also required to file amendments to the Part 2 whenever there are material changes.
How do I file an amendment to my Form ADV Part 1?
You file all amendments to your Form ADV Part 1 on the FINRA Investment Advisor Registration Depository (“IARD”) system.
How often do I need to amend my Form ADV Part 1?
Your Form ADV Part 1 needs to be amended at least on an annual basis. However, during the year if your business model changes, you may be required to amend your Form ADV Part 1 as well as your ADV Part 2 Brochure and Brochure Supplement.
Who is responsible for my firm’s ongoing compliance requirements?
Your Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) has the responsibility of monitoring and making sure your firm’s ongoing compliance requirements are met.
Move Forward with Confidence
Get the compliance answers and support you need to move your financial firm forward with confidence. Talk with one of our compliance experts today.
